Ufi Ltd is to open a network of up to 50 easy-access, on-line learning centres in Wales during 2000.

Ufi aims to transform how and where people learn, help businesses become more competitive and help individuals to improve their employment prospects.

Ufi learning centres will operate under the brand name learndirect and will be run by consortia of education and training providers, employers, local authorities, libraries, community groups, trade unions, voluntary and community organisations, and sports and social clubs.

The first four learndirect centres in Wales will be open for business from March. They will be in:

* Cardiff - at the ITEC training centre in Penarth Road, near the rail and bus stations
* Chirk - at the lifelong learning centre in the Chirk public library
* Narbeth - at the Bloomfield community education centre in Redstone Road
* Swansea - at The Kingsway Centre at 37 Kingsway